In the coastal region of Shyamnagar, Satkhira, a groundbreaking solution to environmental waste is taking shape. Aslam Hossain, a resident of Nawabenki, has developed a method to transform discarded crab shells into a highly effective organic fertilizer, known as ‘Magiccompost’. This organic fertilizer, rich in potassium, is produced by drying and grinding the crab shells into powder and combining them with decomposing vegetables in precise proportions.
Crab farming has surged in recent years across the salinity-prone coastal district of Satkhira, with many farmers shifting from shrimp farming to crabs due to the species’ resilience to climate conditions and high commercial value. However, the increased farming activity has led to a growing environmental problem, as discarded crab shells were often left to rot, causing pollution and odor issues. Aslam Hossain saw a solution where others saw waste and launched a venture that turns these shells into a commercially viable organic fertilizer.
Aslam’s innovation addresses two key issues: it reduces waste from crab farming while providing a sustainable alternative to chemical fertilizers. His business has been financially supported by the Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and the World Bank under their Sustainable Enterprise Project (SEP), with additional local backing from the Nawabenki Ganamukhi Foundation (NGF).
The production process for Magiccompost is relatively straightforward. Crab shells are collected from local farms, dried, and ground into powder using a machine. These are then mixed with decomposing vegetables, collected from local markets and households, and left to decompose for up to two months. The final product is a nutrient-rich organic fertilizer, which is sun-dried, packaged, and sold at a profit. Magiccompost costs between $0.11-$0.13 to produce per kilogram, and is sold for $0.25 per kilogram.
Since its inception in 2021, the fertilizer has gained a growing customer base, with local shrimp farmers and vegetable growers using it to improve yields. Aslam’s enterprise has already caught the attention of 30 local shrimp farms and 20 commercial vegetable growers, who are utilizing the fertilizer to boost their production. The demand for Magiccompost is also rising among urban gardeners, many of whom place their orders through social media platforms like Facebook.
Crab farming in Satkhira has been on the rise due to the species’ climate resilience and lower susceptibility to diseases compared to shrimp. However, the increased production of crabs has also led to a rise in waste, with most crab shells previously discarded in rivers and landfills, leading to environmental degradation. By transforming this waste into a valuable fertilizer, Aslam is not only contributing to sustainable farming but also earning a monthly income of $250-$420.
Aslam Hossain’s long-term goal is to expand Magiccompost’s reach across the country, under his own brand name. He is currently in the process of obtaining approval from the Bangladesh Standards and Testing Institution (BSTI), which will allow him to market the fertilizer more widely. He also plans to scale up production, but requires additional infrastructure and investment to meet growing demand.
“Crab shell fertilizer has the potential to revolutionize sustainable farming in Bangladesh,” Aslam said. “With the right investment, we can expand production and provide farmers with an environmentally friendly alternative to chemical fertilizers, while also tackling the waste problem in the crab farming industry.”
Aslam’s family has a long history in shrimp farming, with seven acres of land currently under shrimp cultivation. However, his success with Magiccompost has prompted him to focus more on sustainable solutions for agriculture.
The initiative stands as a prime example of how innovative thinking can turn environmental challenges into profitable and sustainable ventures. It is a story that not only benefits the local economy but also contributes to the global movement towards sustainable farming and waste management.
In a region grappling with the dual pressures of climate change and environmental degradation, Aslam Hossain’s Magiccompost is proving that solutions can be found by looking at challenges from a new perspective. With support from local organizations and potential investors, the future looks promising for this sustainable initiative.
